In a significant move aimed at improving connectivity, pilgrim convenience and boosting the tourism sector, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has invited bids to prepare DPRs for multiple ropeway projects. As the region faces its own set of challenges-geographical, infrastructural, and economic-these ropeway projects hold the promise of not only providing convenient access to pilgrims but also creating economic opportunities for local communities.
Among the most notable of these projects is the ropeway from Baltal, one of the base camps for the annual Amarnath pilgrimage, to the Shri Amarnath Ji cave shrine. For decades, the Amarnath pilgrimage has attracted lakhs of devotees every year. The 13-kilometre trek from Baltal to the cave shrine has long been a daunting challenge for pilgrims, particularly the elderly and those with physical limitations. With the ropeway in place, this arduous journey will become significantly more accessible, offering a safer, more comfortable alternative for pilgrims to reach the shrine. The development of an 11.6-kilometre ropeway from Baltal to the Shri Amarnath Ji cave shrine is set to bring transformative changes to the region. With the ease of access provided by the ropeway, it is expected that more people will undertake the pilgrimage, enhancing the number of visitors to this iconic religious site.
However, the impact of these ropeway projects extends beyond religious tourism. Jammu and Kashmir, with its natural beauty and diverse landscapes, has long been a popular destination for tourists. The ropeway projects, which also include routes in areas such as Bhaderwah, Sonamarg, and Thajiwas Glacier, are likely to enhance the tourism infrastructure, making it more accessible to a broader range of visitors. These projects will open up remote areas that were previously difficult to reach, bringing with them the potential for significant growth in both domestic and international tourism. The proposed ropeway from Bhaderwah to Seojdhar will improve connectivity and provide visitors with a unique experience of the region’s breathtaking vistas. Similarly, the Sonamarg-Thajiwas Glacier ropeway will give tourists a chance to witness one of Kashmir’s most stunning natural wonders. Equally important are the proposed ropeways of Doodpathri from Parihas to Diskhal and Sutharan to Tosamaidan, both in the Budgam district and the Nashri tunnel to Sanasar in Ramban district.
The economic benefits of these projects cannot be overstated. The development of ropeways is expected to create jobs, not only in construction and maintenance but also in the hospitality and service sectors. Local businesses in these areas will benefit from the increased influx of tourists, while skilled labourers will be needed to maintain and operate the ropeways once they are completed. Furthermore, as the government has committed to implementing the Parvatmala initiative, a national plan for ropeway development, the long-term benefits to the region’s economy will be substantial. The creation of new employment opportunities will play a critical role in supporting Jammu and Kashmir’s economic recovery, especially in the aftermath of years of political instability and economic challenges.
While the prospects of these projects are promising, several factors must be taken into account for their successful execution. The completion of these ropeways requires careful planning, especially considering the challenging geographical conditions of the region. The environmental impact of these projects must also be closely monitored to ensure that they do not disrupt the delicate ecosystems of the Himalayas. Additionally, the government should be transparent with timelines and deadlines for completion, as the public will be eager to see these projects come to fruition. Another point of concern is the legal dispute surrounding the ropeway project from Darshan Deodi to Shivkhori shrine in the Reasi district. The cancellation of bids underlines the complexities involved in implementing infrastructure initiatives in the region. The government must address such legal challenges swiftly, ensuring that the projects move forward without unnecessary delays. With effective execution, these projects can pave the way for a new era of development in J&K, one where accessibility, sustainability, and economic growth go hand in hand.
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